The word bridal refers to anything having to do with a bride, such as her wedding dress or her bouquet. It can also be used to describe an event related to a wedding, such as a bridal shower or a bachelorette party. The term is derived from the Old English word bryd, which means “bride.”
The bridal party includes close friends or family members of the bride who help her plan the wedding. They may also share duties on the big day, such as showing guests to their seats or handing out favors. Traditionally, the bridal party is made up of women, but mixed-gender groups are becoming more common.
Many cultures see a wedding as a passage from the virginal springtime realm of a girl into adulthood and the fruitful world of marriage, where she is expected to produce children. This theme is often reflected in the clothing worn by a bride, with white dresses representing purity and femininity, while red indicates vibrancy and health.
A bride’s hairstyle is another important choice for her big day. Up-dos and chignons can emphasize a bride’s face, while loose waves or curls can frame her neckline and shoulders. A sash or headpiece can add color and flair to a bridal look, and a veil can be an elegant finishing touch to any outfit.
Bridal showers are a fun way to help a friend or relative prepare for her wedding. They can be held in a home, restaurant or other venue and are typically themed, with the bride’s maid of honor or best man helping to organize the party and its activities. Guests are usually asked to bring gifts that fit the theme, such as kitchen items for the bridal kitchen shower or lingerie for the bridal lingerie shower.
One popular bridal shower activity involves writing down a request for the bride on a piece of paper and then reading it aloud to the bride. This is a great way for everyone to get to know the bride better and show her how much they care.
When a bride is getting married, it’s customary for her to wear a wedding dress that is white or ivory. The gown may be floor-length or short, depending on the bride’s preference. Other accessories that are commonly worn include rings, a flower crown or bouquet, and other jewelry. The bride may even carry a prayer book or other token.
When writing an announcement for a wedding to appear in the local newspaper, it’s important to follow guidelines as set forth by the publication. This information can usually be found on the publication’s website. For example, a city newspaper has different procedures for submitting an article than a smaller, rural publication. The publication’s deadlines should also be considered when deciding when to submit an item for print.